Airmail Special

The Airmail Special is made by stirring equal parts gin and dry vermouth, finished with a lemon twist garnish. This construction places it in the same family as a 50/50 Martini, offering a crisp and clean flavor profile.

The Airmail Special uses an equal-parts ratio of gin to dry vermouth, whereas a traditional Dry Martini typically calls for a higher proportion of gin—often 2:1 or drier. The lemon twist garnish on the Airmail also provides a brighter aromatic finish compared to the Martini's more common olive or twist option.

Because the equal-parts ratio means the vermouth plays a much larger role than in a standard Martini, a London Dry gin with assertive juniper and botanical notes helps the gin character shine through. A softer Plymouth or Old Tom gin will produce a noticeably rounder, less crisp drink.

The Airmail Special dates back to the mid-20th century, reflecting the post-Prohibition era's enthusiasm for streamlined gin-and-vermouth drinks. Its name likely references the airmail aviation theme popular in mid-century cocktail culture.